Around Central/S America for up to a year

1.
Posted byKScott(Budding Member 27 posts) 10y
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Hey guys

OK, I'll be flying into Mexico City after a year around SE Asia and Australia, and I plan to make my way down Central America, down the west coast to Ushaia, then up the east coast to finish in Rio and then fly home.

Questions:

What is a realistic time frame for this itinerary? 6 months, 9 months, 1 year?

How much would I need (staying in hostels, catching buses, no flights etc) a day to do this? I realise every countries costs are different but a ballpark figure would be brilliant, I think around £200 p/week sounds reasonable?

Cheers

2.
Posted bySamSalmon(Respected Member 626 posts) 10y
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At first you'll be somewhat disappointed-what most people don't realise is that it's all America-used in the larger sense of the word but still very homogenised in many places.

Your best bet after Mexico is to spend a minimum of time in Central America -snip- and head straight to Colombia as soon as possible.

You'll see the best of South America first and can then decide what else appeals.

[ Edit: please mind your language in our forums. ]

3.
Posted byChapincita(Budding Member 19 posts) 10y
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Hi KScott,-snip-It is one thing to state the facts that Central America in general is an area of developing economy and quite another to claim that the region is a “(generally a run down shitty part of the world with poor food and poorer attractions)Another poor piece of advice is that America is quite homogenized. Nothing could be further from the truth. Each and every country has its unique culture and particular charm.I am Guatemalan but have been away for some time. For this reason I can’t very well help you with the budgetary question, but I had to jump into this mess and say that I beg to differ.Guatemala is a very small country. Poor in economics but has many riches to offer as you visit. Its people and natural beauty are sure to captivate and satisfy your desire for adventure and enrichment. I am sure this is true of each and every country you will be fortunate to visit and spend time in.Go to the regional or country experts on this site and ask for help. I have found them to be very knowledgeable and thorough on the advice they’ve offered me as I plan to travel Central America to enjoy its beauty.Happy travels!

[ Edit: personal comments removed. ]

Post 4 was removed by a moderator

5.
Posted bybentivogli(Travel Guru 2398 posts) 10y
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I can't speak for CA, but Salmon's comments definitely do not apply to SA.

Ive budgeted £11000 for this plus a bit extra for a trip to Angel Falls, side trip to Aruba, the Inca Trail, a Galapagos Cruise and maybe the Rio carnival if I get there at the right time. Would that be ok? It equates to £30 a day.

[ Edit: Edited on Jun 28, 2007, at 12:22 PM by KScott ]

8.
Posted bySamSalmon(Respected Member 626 posts) 10y
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A week in any Central Amercian country is enough for any lifetime especially after the cultural diversity, the wonderful food and amazing sights of SE Asia.